"Asked at the right time a searching question can make a fortress collapse." -- John O'Donohue
The Shortcut To Close Bonds? Asking Meaningful Questions
This week's feature inspires us to approach conversations in our everyday lives differently -- by not shying away from asking reflective, profound questions. Approached intentionally, this practice can de-layer constructs that often get fixed in our individual and societal landscapes. Such reflective questioning can build human bonds while creating inner-shifts in both the enquirer and responder. We invite you to read and reflect on this article. Enjoy.
Reading Corner
Name: Oliver the Curious Owl
Author & Illustrator: Chad Otis
Ages: 7+
“Oliver the owl questions anything and everything in this charmingly funny story that asks who, what, when, where, and why!
The only question Oliver's family ever asks is Who? Who? Who? But he wants to know more:
Who lives in those faraway woods?
Where does the river go?
Why can't I leave our tree?
When his curiosity gets the better of him, Oliver — and his best buddy, Bug — travel far from the safety of home to get answers about the wonderful world they live in. But after a day of exploration, how will the friends find their way back?
In this delightful story of discovery, an inquisitive owl inspires those around him to let their curiosity take flight!” — a synopsis by publishers
Recommended by Kindful Kids Editors
Be the Change
Good questions are akin to holding a lantern, whose light shines on both the enquirer and responder. Taking inspiration from the weekly feature above, discuss this idea with kids in your family or class.
Consider adopting the practice of asking life-affirming questions that invite personal feelings, thoughts and experiences in conversations with friends new and old. This practice encourages a mindset shift that balances courage and care, rather than simply a new list of questions for empty foraging.
